Cllr Holly Whitbread is an Epping Forest District councillor and the Cabinet Member, Housing & Community. She is also a Deputy Cabinet Member on Essex County Council,
The Conservative Party stands at a pivotal moment, and the role of councillors has never been more vital. With over 5,000 members nationwide, we form the largest and most grassroots-connected part of our Party. Our voices must be heard, and our contributions recognised at the highest levels. This is why I am standing to be the next Chairman of the Conservative Councillors Association (CCA).
As the current Deputy Chairman of the CCA, I am ready to take on this challenge. Over recent years, I have demonstrated my commitment to representing councillors at every level—whether in the national media, at CCA board meetings, or directly in our communities.
Now, with the support of fellow councillors, I am ready to step up and reshape the CCA, championing the interests of local government and ensuring councillors are at the heart of rebuilding our Party as we recover from recent election setbacks.
A Stronger voice for all councillors
If elected, I will be a Chairman who listens, acts, and delivers on your behalf. Reshaping the CCA means putting councillors first and amplifying their voices across the Party. My priorities include:
To rebuild our Party, we must break down barriers and ensure the CCA is not just a London-centric organisation. Under my leadership, the CCA will travel to meet you and your teams on the ground, providing the support and resources you need in your local areas.
Shaping the next generation and supporting current councillors
The CCA must play a central role in developing and supporting councillors to rebuild our Party from the grassroots up. With over a decade of experience in local government and campaigning, I have the knowledge and skills to lead this effort effectively.
As Chairman of the Epping Forest Conservative Association, Cabinet Member at Epping Forest District Council, and Deputy Cabinet Member at Essex County Council, I understand the challenges we face on the ground. Elected as a young female councillor at 22, I have firsthand experience of the opportunities and challenges of entering politics. I am committed to inspiring the next generation of Conservatives and strengthening the future of local government.
Under my leadership, the CCA will equip councillors with the tools, training, and strategic direction they need to rebuild our Party and achieve success at every level of government.
As your Chairman, I will:
Fighting Back: A Strategy for Campaign Success
Winning elections is central to rebuilding our Party. With May’s local elections fast approaching, retaining as many Conservative councillors as possible is absolutely essential. If elected as CCA Chairman, I will work tirelessly to secure the national Party’s support to achieve electoral success.
I know what it takes to win. I’ve successfully defended my own marginal seat multiple times and have campaigned extensively across the country. As councillors, we are uniquely equipped to connect with our communities, defend marginal seats, and lead successful campaigns.
My strategy focuses on equipping you with the tools and support you need to succeed:
Navigating Change, Championing Localism
We are experiencing a period of significant change in local government. Labour’s push for unitarisation and the expansion of directly elected mayors marks a major shift in governance. However, this change also presents a valuable opportunity to defend local decision-making, champion localism, and advocate for greater efficiency and better outcomes in local government.
As CCA Chairman, I will ensure councillors are fully equipped to navigate and influence this evolving landscape. Through targeted training and strategic resources, we will empower Conservative councillors to lead with confidence and shape the future of local governance.
A champion for councillors at CCHQ
My vision for the CCA is clear: to put councillors at the heart of rebuilding our Party.
I am committed to empowering councillors, driving the local government agenda, and securing a brighter future for the Conservative Party. As CCA Chairman, I will bring fresh energy, enthusiasm, and a collaborative approach to this vital role.
I hope to earn the trust and support of my fellow councillors when polls open, serving as their champion at CCHQ. Together, we can strengthen our Party, empower councillors, and deliver Conservative councils that enable communities to thrive.